I’m OK with most creatures and as long as they don’t bother me, I am happy if they keep themselves to themselves. But even typing the words ‘mice’ or that ‘word’ for bigger rodents leaves me with escalating panic. I am the person who spent two weeks sleeping in my car when I discovered mice under the stairs.  

Also, I realise that helping them keep themselves to themselves takes some persuasion.  Using essential oils as a natural means for pest control is an effective, non-toxic, and environmentally friendly way to keep unwanted critters at bay. Each essential oil has a unique aroma that can repel specific pests.

Here are some essential oils that can be used for pest control.

1. Peppermint Oil: Its strong, refreshing scent is disliked by many pests, including spiders, ants, and mice. Spraying a peppermint-infused water mixture around the home can deter these pests.

2. Lavender Oil: Recognized for its calming scent, lavender oil is a natural repellent for mosquitoes, flies, and fleas. You can diffuse it indoors or spray it around windows and entrances.

3. Citronella Oil: This is one of the most used natural insect repellents. The strong scent of citronella oil can effectively repel mosquitoes, ticks, and sand fleas.

4. Lemongrass Oil: Similar to citronella oil, lemongrass oil repels a wide range of insects, including mosquitoes, fleas, and fruit flies.

5. Eucalyptus Oil: This is particularly effective against dust mites. You can add a few drops of eucalyptus oil to your laundry detergent to get rid of dust mites from bedding or clothes.

6. Tea Tree Oil: Known for its strong scent, tea tree oil is excellent at warding off ants and spiders. A few drops near windows or any potential entry points deter these creatures.

7. Clove Oil: This oil acts as a natural repellent against numerous pests including mosquitoes, flies, and even rats.

8. Basil Oil: Basil oil is effective in repelling house flies and mosquitoes. Apply it around your picnic or barbecue area to keep these bugs from intruding.

9. Cedarwood Oil: This is excellent at deterring moths, ants, and fleas. Use it in your closets to keep clothes moth-free.

10. Lemongrass Oil: This essential oil is excellent for deterring fruit flies, which can be a problem with a high raw lifestyle. Leave a small bowl or spray a mixture with lemongrass oil near infested areas to prevent infestations.

Using essential oils for pest control is a safe, organic method that helps maintain the balance of nature. However, it is crucial to remember that whilst these oils are natural, they are potent. Use a good quality natural oil, not a synthetic based oil, and ensure they are kept away from kids and pets.

Safety Notes

• Always perform a patch test when applying them to fabrics or surfaces for the first time to ensure that discolouration doesn’t occur.

• If you are pregnant, nursing, or have any medical conditions, consult a health professional before using essential oils.